The nation of Venezuela experienced an unprecedented seismic event on the evening of June 24, 2026, as two powerful earthquakes struck in rapid succession near the coastal town of Morón, approximately 168 kilometers west of the capital, Caracas. The first quake, initially measured at 7.1 magnitude but later revised to 7.2, was swiftly followed by an even more powerful 7.5 magnitude tremor just one minute later. These seismic events, among the strongest to hit Venezuela in over a century, have left a trail of destruction and disruption across the country.

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the epicenters of these earthquakes were located near the town of Morón on Venezuela’s Caribbean coast. The first quake had a depth of 22 kilometers, while the second, more powerful quake had a depth of 10 kilometers. The proximity in time and location of these events has made it challenging for seismologists to unravel the exact magnitudes and locations, particularly for the second event.

The immediate aftermath and response

In the immediate aftermath of the earthquakes, Acting President Delcy Rodríguez declared a state of emergency, acknowledging damage in several states but not providing specific figures for fatalities, injuries, or affected homes and buildings. The Simón Bolívar International Airport Venezuela’s main airport, was damaged and closed, along with subway and natural gas services in Caracas. Rodríguez urged Venezuelans to report any damages through a government app and announced that school classes would be canceled for several days, with some school buildings being used as shelters and donation centers.

Rodríguez’s address to the nation emphasized the need for calm and unity, stating, “We urge our population to remain calm. We urge unity.” She also called on healthcare professionals to report to hospitals to assist the injured. The Ministry of Education confirmed that some school buildings would serve as shelters and donation centers in the wake of the disaster.

International assistance and solidarity

In response to the crisis, various governments offered assistance to Venezuela. The U.S. State Department mobilized a disaster assistance team and task force to coordinate aid, including search-and-rescue teams, medical and humanitarian supplies. Jeremy P. Lewin the U.S. undersecretary of state for foreign assistance, confirmed that these resources would be coordinated with the interim Venezuelan government.

Expressions of solidarity and offers of aid came from leaders across the region. El Salvador President Nayib Bukele offered support, writing on X, “We send you all our solidarity and our prayers. Stay strong, Venezuela.” Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa ordered the immediate delivery of humanitarian aid, stating, “Ecuador will respond with the speed and commitment this moment demands because, despite our enormous differences, humanity must always guide the actions of a leader.”

Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz who had recently declared a state of emergency in his own country following weeks of anti-government protests, also pledged assistance. The administration of Brazil President Luiz Inácio da Silva expressed solidarity and reported no injuries among Brazilians.

The human impact and ongoing challenges

The earthquakes caused widespread panic and disruption in Caracas, with residents evacuating swaying buildings and seeking safety in the streets. Collapsed buildings, toppled electric poles, and debris blocked streets, while parts of the capital lost power and cellphone signal. Residents described the intense force of the quakes, with one Caracas resident, Hector Ricci noting, “It started off gently and then gradually grew, and in the end, we all had to leave our houses, go outside and gather together.”

The lack of cellphone signal in parts of Venezuela deepened the distress of many families, particularly those among the more than 7.7 million people who have left the country during its protracted crisis. Venezuela opposition leader María Corina Machado in exile after leaving Venezuela in December, took to X to send prayers and wish strength to Venezuelans, stating, “May strength, serenity, and solidarity prevail among us in the face of this difficult time.”

Venezuela Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello reported that the quake could be felt in several states and asked motorists to give way to ambulances and other emergency vehicles. He confirmed collapsed homes and buildings in the Altamira neighborhood and urged people to remain outside as aftershocks could further damage structures. “Be very careful with children and the elderly. Call each other and check that no one has been harmed,” he advised on state television.

The impact of the earthquakes was felt beyond Venezuela’s borders, with buildings evacuated in Manaus, Belem, and Macapá in Brazil’s Amazon. The quakes were also felt in Colombia’s Caribbean and northeast regions, but there were no reports of damages or injuries. The U.S. Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued several tsunami alerts in the wake of the earthquakes, which were quickly lifted.

As Venezuela grapples with the aftermath of these unprecedented seismic events, the focus remains on rescue efforts, international aid, and the resilience of its people in the face of adversity.